December IVC UserGroup

December 1, 2008

Back in the summer when I picked dates for UserGroup meetings, December 1 seemed like a good date. Today, it seemed like the first day back after a long holiday weekend. Reality sets back in.

It is exciting to hear that my schools are getting started with 1:1 initiatives and 21st Century Classrooms. Imagine the possibilities for engaging students and preparing themm with 21st century skills. Hopefully, we can use the technology in a challenging and engaging way to excite students about learning.

The three topics related to videoconferencing were Read Around the Planet, Muskingum Valley ESC, and NASA Digital Learning Network.

1. Registration for Read Around the Planet is open. For the majority of our schools, they will just log into CAPspace and register. (Remember, click My Projects, Read Around the Planet, click +Register) If you are a building coordinator, you can enter all your teacher registrations for them. Enter as many dates/times as you can. The computer will not double-book your equipment. It is the same procedure you used for Monster Match 2008.
2. Muskingum Valley ESC programs have gotten positive reviews from Angela Conrad during her Field Trip Fridays. The cost is $75 each and we have 7 or 8 Mrs. Claus programs booked and will be posted comments after we check them out.
3. NASA Digital Learning Network provides high-quality free programming that enable students to learn about our planet and our explorations in space. The challenges are especially popular with middle school students. Get your account and book your sessions today. Check out NASA’s video podcasts! Glenn has a nice overview of their center and some of the really cool NEEMO footage.

Posted in Collaborative Projects